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Leptospirosis in zoo workers associated with bears
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|January 1, 1978
Summary
Two zoo animal keepers contracted leptospirosis from infected bear cubs. This highlights the risk of zoonotic disease transmission from wildlife in zoological settings.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Pathogens
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a significant zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic Leptospira bacteria.
- Leptospira interrogans serovar icterohaemorrhagiae is a common cause of severe leptospirosis in humans and animals.
Observation:
- Two zoo animal keepers were diagnosed with leptospirosis.
- The implicated source of infection was identified as bear cubs housed at the same zoo.
Findings:
- The bear cubs exhibited microscopic agglutination antibody titers specific to the Icterohaemorrhagiae serogroup of leptospires.
- This serological evidence strongly implicates the bear cubs as the source of infection for the human handlers.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for zoonotic disease transmission between exotic animals and zoo personnel.
- Implementing stringent biosecurity measures and regular health monitoring in zoological facilities is crucial for preventing leptospirosis outbreaks.
- Further research into the prevalence of Leptospira within zoo animal populations is warranted to mitigate occupational health risks.